SEATTLE, WASHINGTON – September 21, 2025 – The Kansas City Chiefs’ hopes of bolstering their running game with a high-profile acquisition have been dashed, as New Orleans Saints’ star running back Alvin Kamara has reaffirmed his commitment to remain with his team through the NFL trade deadline. This development leaves the Chiefs scrambling to find alternative solutions to their inconsistent offensive performance in the early 2025 season.
Chiefs’ Offensive Struggles Highlight Need for a Running Back
The Chiefs have faced challenges in their first five games, particularly in their running game, relying heavily on quarterback Patrick Mahomes to move the ball on the ground. With an uneven offensive output, many analysts pointed to Kamara, a versatile 7,000-yard career rusher, as a potential game-changer for Kansas City. His ability to excel in both rushing and receiving made him a prime target for a team looking to balance its attack.
However, NFL.com insider Ian Rapoport reported on Saturday that Kamara has no intention of leaving New Orleans. “Kamara told Saints general manager Mickey Loomis that he wants to finish his career with the team, a goal he set when signing a two-year, $24.5 million extension in October last year,” Rapoport noted. Kamara, who is under contract through 2026, made it clear he wishes to remain with the Saints, the team that drafted him in the third round of the 2017 NFL Draft.
Saints’ Loyalty to Kamara Shuts Down Trade Talks
Rapoport further detailed that Loomis, respecting Kamara’s status as a franchise cornerstone, was transparent with the running back about inquiries from other teams, including the Chiefs. When asked if he wanted to explore other opportunities, Kamara reiterated his desire to stay in New Orleans. “Loomis wanted to treat one of the faces of the franchise with respect,” Rapoport reported. “Kamara expressed his commitment to the Saints, closing the door on any trade discussions.”
This decision is a significant blow to Kansas City, as Kamara was seen as one of the top running backs available before the trade deadline. Matt Verderame of SI.com had speculated that the Chiefs could have acquired Kamara for a fifth-round draft pick, a relatively low cost for a player of his caliber. With Kamara off the table, the Chiefs must now pivot to other options to address their backfield woes.
Chiefs and Chargers Search for Alternatives
The Chiefs are not alone in their pursuit of running back help. According to a separate report by Rapoport and NFL.com’s Mike Garofolo, both Kansas City and their AFC West rivals, the Los Angeles Chargers, are actively seeking reinforcements at the position. However, other high-profile targets, such as New York Jets’ running back Breece Hall, have also expressed their desire to stay with their current teams, further complicating the Chiefs’ plans.
ESPN’s Dan Graziano has suggested that the Chiefs could turn their attention to Jacksonville Jaguars’ running back Travis Etienne Jr. as a potential trade target. Graziano noted that the Jaguars, who drafted Bhayshul Tuten in the fourth round and LeQuint Allen Jr. in the seventh round of this year’s draft, may be looking to evaluate their younger players. With Jacksonville potentially out of playoff contention, Etienne, who carries a $6.143 million salary, could become available. The Jaguars’ recent trade of running back Tank Bigsby to the Philadelphia Eagles further supports the possibility of a deal involving Etienne.
As the NFL trade deadline approaches, the Chiefs must act swiftly to address their backfield deficiencies. While Kamara’s decision to stay with the Saints is a setback, Kansas City’s front office remains active in the trade market. Finding a reliable running back to complement Mahomes and stabilize the offense will be critical for the Chiefs’ aspirations of another deep playoff run.
For now, Chiefs fans are left to wonder who will step up as the team’s next target. With Kamara’s loyalty to New Orleans solidified and other top options limited, Kansas City’s dream of adding a 7,000-yard breakout star has vanished, forcing the team to explore new avenues to salvage their season.